cerebral autoregulation
The brain's ability to maintain constant blood flow despite changes in perfusion pressure, assessable with perfusion imaging.
Full Definition
Cerebral autoregulation is a critical physiological mechanism that maintains relatively constant cerebral blood flow across a range of systemic blood pressures, typically between mean arterial pressures of 50-150 mmHg. This process involves complex interactions between vascular smooth muscle, endothelial function, and neurogenic control mechanisms. In neuroimaging, cerebral autoregulation can be assessed using various perfusion techniques including arterial spin labeling, dynamic susceptibility contrast imaging, or transcranial Doppler studies. Impaired autoregulation is associated with various pathological states including stroke, traumatic brain injury, and neurodegenerative diseases.
Usage
Usage note: Relate to specific perfusion imaging findings when discussing in reports.
In Context
- "Impaired cerebral autoregulation was suggested by the abnormal perfusion response to acetazolamide challenge." — Cerebrovascular reserve study
- "The patient's cerebral autoregulation appeared intact based on perfusion imaging findings." — Perfusion MRI report